Lighting unit for a track lighting system and lighting assembly

Abstract

The invention relates to a lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) for a rail lighting system, which comprises a support rail (1000; 1000') which is shaped to follow an at least partially curved path (1001) and is provided with at least one mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) along a longitudinal extent (1002) of the support rail. The lighting unit can be inserted into the mounting slot for electrically contacting a conductor device (1006) of the support rail. The lighting unit has a lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) which is divided into two or more lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) along a longitudinal extent (3) of the lighting unit body, wherein adjacent ones of the lighting unit segments are each connected in a connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"; 7"', 8‴) are connected to each other.The connecting region enables flexible bendability of the lighting unit body around at least one bending axis (9, 10), wherein the bending axis runs non-parallel to the longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body. The lighting unit body is designed to be more flexible in the connecting region than in the region of the lighting unit segments. Furthermore, a lighting arrangement (2000; 3000; 4000; 5000) with a support rail (1000; 1000') and a luminaire (1; 1'; 1"; 1") according to the invention is proposed.

Description

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The invention relates to a lighting unit for a rail lighting system with a support rail which is shaped to follow a path which is at least partially curved, and further to a lighting arrangement with at least one such lighting unit. TECHNICAL BACKGROUND

[0002] Track lighting systems that offer more variety and flexibility in the arrangement of lighting devices than, for example, permanently mounted individual lights are already known as such.

[0003] EP 3 876 365 A1 describes a luminaire adapter for a track lighting system. The track lighting system comprises a support rail that is curved at least in sections along a longitudinal extension. EP 3 876 365 A1 describes a bendable adapter body of the luminaire adapter to allow the luminaire adapter to be inserted into the curved support rail practically and easily. SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0004] Against this background, the invention is based on the object of enabling further improved, flexible, compact, and particularly elegant lighting based on a track lighting system, wherein curved support rails should be usable when constructing a lighting arrangement based on the track lighting system. In particular, a lighting solution is to be proposed that can also be manufactured in a practical and simple manner. According to the invention, this object is achieved by a lighting unit having the features of claim 1 and / or by a lighting arrangement having the features of claim 23.

[0005] A lighting unit for a track lighting system is proposed, comprising a support rail shaped to follow a path that is at least partially curved. The support rail is provided with at least one mounting slot along its longitudinal extent.

[0006] The lighting unit can be inserted into the mounting slot for electrically contacting a conductor device of the support rail. The lighting unit has a lighting unit body that is divided into two or more lighting unit segments along a longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body. Adjacent lighting unit segments are connected to one another in a connecting region, wherein the connecting region enables flexible bendability of the lighting unit body about at least one bending axis. The bending axis does not run parallel to the longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body. The lighting unit body is designed to be more flexible in the connecting region than in the region of the lighting unit segments.

[0007] Furthermore, according to the invention, a lighting arrangement is created, comprising: a support rail shaped to follow an at least partially curved path, provided with at least one mounting slot along a longitudinal extent of the support rail, and having a conductor device; and at least one lighting unit according to the invention, which is inserted into the mounting slot and is in electrical contact with the conductor device.

[0008] The lighting unit can be supplied with at least electrical energy provided by the conductor device for the operation of the lighting unit or at least with electrical energy provided by the conductor device and a control signal provided by the conductor device.

[0009] One idea underlying the invention is to provide the lighting unit with flexibility in at least one direction, whereby the lighting unit can be used flexibly in support rails with a curved shape.

[0010] By allowing the light unit to be inserted into the mounting slot, combined with the fact that the support rail can be curved in different ways in the area where the light unit is inserted, a versatile, compact and elegant lighting solution is achieved.

[0011] By specifically equipping the lighting unit body with improved bendability and flexibility in the connecting areas, the lighting unit segments themselves can be designed to be more rigid and stiff, allowing additional components housed in the lighting unit segments, such as light-generating devices and / or electrical and / or electronic components for operating the light-generating devices, to be well protected and precisely held. Furthermore, this design can contribute to simplifying the manufacturing of the lighting unit.

[0012] Advantageous embodiments and further developments of the invention emerge from the further subclaims and from the description with reference to the figures.

[0013] In one embodiment, the at least one bending axis runs essentially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the lighting unit body. The lighting unit can thus be used in a variety of ways with curved mounting rails.

[0014] According to one embodiment, the connecting region enables flexible bendability of the lighting unit body around at least two bending axes. The two bending axes are non-parallel to one another and each run non-parallel to the longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body. With this embodiment, the lighting unit can be used even more flexibly in support rails of a wide variety of curved shapes. In particular, this embodiment enables the lighting unit to be inserted into a mounting slot that can be arranged in a wide variety of ways on the curved support rail, avoiding restrictions with regard to the possible orientation of a depth direction of the mounting slot and an insertion direction of the lighting unit in the cross-section of the support rail.

[0015] In one embodiment, the two bending axes are substantially perpendicular to each other and / or run substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension of the lighting unit body. This enables even more versatile use of the lighting unit with curved mounting rails.

[0016] For example, the lighting unit body can have three to ten lighting unit segments, for example, three or six. Other configurations, such as four, five, seven, or eight, are conceivable. Thus, the flexible adaptability of the lighting unit to the configuration of the support rail and / or the possibility of accommodating additional components in the lighting unit body can be varied and improved.

[0017] In one embodiment, the connecting region(s) is / are each formed with at least one wave structure with wave crests and wave troughs. In a further development, the directions of the crests of the wave crests and the bottoms of the wave troughs run non-parallel, in particular substantially perpendicular, to the longitudinal extension of the lighting unit body. The flexibility in the connecting regions is thus achieved in a manner that is uncomplicated and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0018] In one embodiment, the connecting region(s) is / are each formed with at least one elastic intermediate section. In particular, the elastic intermediate section can be plate-like or wall-like. This embodiment also enables flexibility in the connecting regions in a practical and cost-effective manner.

[0019] In one embodiment, the lighting unit body has a box-like shape, with the lighting unit segments each being formed with at least a cover section, side walls, and an interior space. In this way, the lighting unit segments allow for the accommodation of additional components, for example, electrical and / or electronic components. In particular, such accommodated components can comprise one or more light-generating devices, devices for electrical contact, and / or devices for supplying and / or controlling the light-generating device(s).

[0020] In particular, at least one of the lighting unit segments has at least one light-generating device. In further developments, several or all of the lighting unit segments can each be equipped with at least one light-generating device.

[0021] The lighting unit body can be formed, for example, as a housing component of the lighting unit, for example as a one-piece housing component.

[0022] The cover section and the side walls of the lighting unit segment can, in particular, each be formed integrally with one another. This can simplify production.

[0023] In one embodiment, adjacent edge regions of the side walls of the adjacent lighting unit segments are connected in the connecting region by a wave structure with wave crests and wave troughs. The wave structure can, in particular, be formed integrally with the side walls connected by it. This further simplifies production.

[0024] In a further embodiment, adjacent edge regions of the side walls of the adjacent lighting unit segments are connected in the connecting region by an elastic intermediate section, in particular a plate-like or wall-like elastic intermediate section. The intermediate section can, for example, be formed integrally with the side walls connected by it.

[0025] In a further development, the crests of the wave peaks and the troughs of the wave valleys run essentially parallel to the side walls connected by the wave structure. This achieves good bendability around a bending axis parallel to the side walls. In particular, the directions of the crests and troughs run transversely, for example, approximately perpendicularly, to the longitudinal extension of the lighting unit body.

[0026] In one embodiment, the plate-like or wall-like elastic intermediate section is formed as a substantially planar continuation of a main extension surface of one of the side walls toward an adjacent side wall. Thus, good bendability can be achieved with a simple shape.

[0027] In particular, in one embodiment, the wave structure can comprise at least two wavelengths, for example, essentially two full wavelengths. This contributes to good bendability both around a bending axis that is, for example, essentially parallel to the crests and troughs, and around another bending axis that runs transversely to the crests and troughs, for example, essentially perpendicular.

[0028] In one embodiment, at least one planar support component is accommodated in the interior spaces of at least two adjacent lighting unit segments. The planar support component carries electrical conductors, and in particular electronic components and / or electrical contacting devices. In particular, the planar support components can each carry one or more light-generating devices, in particular LEDs, or at least one of the planar support components can carry one or more light-generating devices, in particular LEDs. Furthermore, in this embodiment, the planar support components of the adjacent lighting unit segments are connected to one another and electrically coupled via a strip-like or film-like, flexible connection.In this way, an assembly of electrical and / or electronic components housed in the lamp unit body can easily and damage-free accommodate bending of the lamp unit body. The tape- or foil-like connection is simple and cost-effective to manufacture.

[0029] In a further development, it is provided that one, several, or all of the planar support components each carry one or more light-generating devices, in particular an LED or LEDs. The light-generating devices can thus be arranged in a space-saving manner and supplied with power in a practical manner.

[0030] In a further embodiment, the flat carrier component is accommodated in the interior space essentially parallel to the cover section between the side walls. This can, for example, facilitate the arrangement of contact elements such that the contact elements can contact the conductor device of the support rail through recesses in both opposite side walls, as well as simplify the assembly of the carrier component. For example, a carrier component with single-sided assembly, for example, a single-sided assembly of the printed circuit board, can be used.

[0031] In one embodiment, at least one optical element, for example a reflector or a lens, is further accommodated in the interior space. For example, the optical element can be arranged on a side of the planar support component facing the cover section and enables the light generated by one or more of the light-generating devices during operation to be directed outwardly through an opening in the cover section for emission by the lighting unit.

[0032] In one embodiment, the strip-like or film-like flexible connection in the connection region is formed with a strip-like or film-like, flexible material which carries conductor tracks and is arranged in a U-shape in the connection region. In particular, it can be provided that a valley floor of the U-shape runs essentially parallel to the cover sections when the lighting unit is unbent. Due to the flexibility and strip-like or film-like nature of the material as well as the U-shape, this embodiment enables the adjacent support components to be movable relative to one another in the connection region about more than one axis. Furthermore, the valley floor of the U-shape can run in particular transversely to the longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body.

[0033] In particular, in one refinement, the U-shape is arranged in a transverse direction of the lighting unit between two of the wave structures of the connecting region. The material arranged in a U-shape thus provides flexibility in the connecting region, in which the wave structure enables flexibility and bendability of the lighting unit body.

[0034] In another embodiment, the U-shape is arranged in a transverse direction of the lighting unit between two of the elastic intermediate sections of the connecting region. The material arranged in a U-shape thus provides flexibility in the connecting region, in which the elastic, for example, wall- or plate-like, intermediate section enables flexibility and bendability of the lighting unit body.

[0035] In one embodiment, the lighting unit segments are each substantially closed on a side opposite the cover section by means of a base element, wherein the base element is designed in particular as a separate component. Components inside the lighting unit body, in particular electrical and / or electronic components, optical elements, or light-generating devices, can thus be housed with even better protection.

[0036] The base element can be designed as a component common to the lighting unit segments, which is formed with base sections, wherein the base sections are each flexibly connected to one another and are each assigned to one of the lighting unit segments. In an alternative embodiment, each of the lighting unit segments can be assigned a separate base element, which is formed separately from the other base elements.

[0037] For example, the base element can be locked to the side walls of the lighting unit segment.

[0038] In one embodiment, a gap is provided between mutually facing narrow side edges of the cover sections of the adjacent lighting unit segments in an unbent state of the lighting unit body. The narrow side edge of a first of the cover sections is formed with a convex contour, as seen in a main extension plane of the first cover section, and the narrow side edge of a second of the cover sections is formed with a concave contour, as seen in a main extension plane of the second cover section. In this embodiment, the convex and concave contours interlock in such a way that the gap remains in the unbent state. This prevents the cover sections from colliding during bending or hindering the bending. At the same time, it is possible to ensure that successive cover sections form a largely closed surface.The concave and convex contours, in their interaction, facilitate bending around a bending axis transverse to the main extension planes of the cover sections.

[0039] In a further embodiment, the narrow side edge of the second lid section can be provided with a bevel within the concave contour. This can further facilitate bending about a bending axis substantially parallel to the main extension planes of the lid sections.

[0040] In a further development, the lighting unit body is made of at least one plastic material. The use of at least one plastic material contributes to the cost-effective production of a weight-saving component. Furthermore, a plastic material can provide electrically insulating properties if required.

[0041] In one embodiment, the adjacent lighting unit segments are integrally connected in the connecting area. This eliminates the need for individual components to be assembled, further simplifying production.

[0042] In one embodiment, the lighting unit body is formed from the same material, in particular the same plastic material, in the lighting unit segments and in the connecting areas. This can contribute to further simplifying production and reducing manufacturing costs.

[0043] In one embodiment, the lighting unit body is formed in the lighting unit segments with a first material, in particular a first plastic material, and in the connecting regions with a second material different from the first material, in particular a second plastic material. The second material can, for example, have greater elasticity than the first material. Thus, the choice of material can be well adapted to the respective function of the lighting unit segment and connecting region. The second material can, for example, be formed as a rubber-like plastic in the solidified state, whereas the first material can, for example, be relatively rigid in the solidified state. In particular, the wave structure(s) or the elastic intermediate section(s) can be formed from the second material.

[0044] In one exemplary embodiment, the lighting unit body is manufactured using an injection molding process. In an alternative embodiment, the lighting unit body can be manufactured using 3D printing. Furthermore, in further embodiments, the base element(s) can also be formed from the one plastic material or the first plastic material. For example, the base element(s) can be injection molded or 3D printed. The use of an injection molding process enables cost-effective production, particularly in larger quantities, whereas a 3D printing process is well suited for components with complex geometries and avoids the need for an expensive casting tool, which can be advantageous for smaller quantities.

[0045] In particular, during the production of the lighting unit body, the first material and the second material can be processed together in the injection molding process or the 3D printing process. Thus, injection molding or 3D printing of the regions formed with the first and second materials can be performed in one step, which is advantageous for efficient and cost-effective production.

[0046] In one embodiment, the path followed by the support rail can be a flat curve, with a depth direction of the mounting slot oriented substantially perpendicular to a plane of the curve. In this way, for example, light emission by the lighting unit directed substantially toward a surface, such as the floor of a room, can be implemented relatively easily, particularly using relatively simple optical devices.

[0047] In one embodiment, the path followed by the support rail can be a flat curve, with at least one section of the support rail having a depth direction of the mounting slot deviating from a normal to the plane of the curve, for example, lying in the plane or running at an angle to it. With such a curved shape, the lighting unit can be advantageously used to achieve interesting lighting effects, particularly if it is provided with the ability to bend around two bending axes.

[0048] In another embodiment, the path followed by the support rail can be a three-dimensional curve, with at least one section of the support rail having a depth direction of the mounting slot deviating from a binormal of an accompanying tripod of the three-dimensional curve, for example, running along a principal normal or lying in the normal plane spanned by the binormal and the principal normal. However, in a further and equally useful embodiment, the depth direction of the mounting slot can run along or parallel to the binormal. This, in turn, enables diverse and aesthetic lighting solutions.

[0049] In one embodiment, the support rail has at least two mounting slots, and the lighting arrangement comprises at least two of the lighting units according to the invention. Within a section of the support rail within which the path is curved, the lighting units are each inserted into one of the mounting slots, at least partially opposite one another. Thus, the same type of lighting unit can be used in a flexible and versatile manner in several mounting slots of the support rail in the curved section.

[0050] The above embodiments and further developments can be combined with one another as desired, where appropriate. Further possible embodiments, further developments, and implementations of the invention also include combinations of features of the invention not explicitly mentioned above or described below with regard to the exemplary embodiments. In particular, those skilled in the art will also add individual aspects as improvements or additions to the respective basic form of the present invention. TABLE OF CONTENTS OF THE DRAWING

[0051] The invention will be explained in more detail below with reference to the exemplary embodiments shown in the figures of the drawings. In the figures: Fig. 1 is a perspective view of a lighting unit according to a first embodiment; Fig. 2 is a bottom view of the lighting unit of the Fig. 1 ; Fig. 3 a partial and enlarged plan view of the lighting unit of the Fig. 1 ; Fig. 4 an exploded perspective view of the lighting unit of the Fig. 1 ; Fig. 5 a perspective detail view of Fig. 4 ; Fig. 6 shows a perspective detailed view of a base element for the lighting unit of the first embodiment in a connecting region that connects two base sections in a flexible manner; Fig. 7 shows a perspective detailed view of a lighting unit body of the lighting unit according to the first embodiment; Fig. 8 shows a detail of the top view of Fig. 2 ; Fig. 9, 10 two views of the lighting unit of the Fig. 1 , cut along a longitudinal center plane thereof; Fig. 11 a curved support rail and a lighting unit according to the first embodiment for forming a lighting arrangement, before inserting the lighting unit into a mounting slot of the support rail; Fig. 12 a schematic cross-sectional view of the support rail from Fig. 11 with the inserted lighting unit according to the first embodiment; Fig. 13 a section of a lighting arrangement according to a second embodiment, with a curved support rail and a lighting unit inserted into a mounting slot thereof; Fig. 14 a longitudinal center section of a support rail in a section of a lighting arrangement with the inserted lighting unit of the Fig. 13 , according to a variant of the second embodiment; Fig. 15 a side view of the lighting unit of the Fig. 13 , 14 in a bent state, as the lighting unit is exemplified in the lighting arrangement of the Fig. 14 is used; Fig. 16 a longitudinal center section of a support rail in a section of a lighting arrangement, with two oppositely inserted lighting units, each of the lighting units as in Fig. 13-15 shown, according to yet another variant of the second embodiment; Fig. 17 is a perspective view of a curved section of the lighting arrangement of the Fig. 16 during insertion of the two lighting units; Fig. 18 shows a perspective view of a lighting unit according to a third embodiment, with one side open; and Fig. 19 shows a perspective view of a lighting unit according to a fourth embodiment, with one side open.

[0052] The accompanying drawings are intended to provide a further understanding of embodiments of the invention. They illustrate embodiments and, in conjunction with the description, serve to explain principles and concepts of the invention. Other embodiments and many of the noted advantages will be apparent upon review of the drawings. Elements of the drawings are not necessarily shown to scale relative to one another.

[0053] In the figures, identical, functionally identical and acting elements, features and components are provided with the same reference symbols unless otherwise stated. DESCRIPTION OF EMBODIMENTS

[0054] Fig. 1-12 illustrate a lighting unit 1 for a track lighting system and a lighting arrangement 2000 with the lighting unit 1. The lighting unit 1 has a lighting unit body 2 which is divided into lighting unit segments 104, 105, 106, 107, 108 and 109 along a longitudinal extent 3 of the lighting unit body 2.

[0055] Adjacent lighting unit segments 104-105 are each connected to one another in a connecting region 114-118. For example, the two lighting unit segments 104 and 105 are connected to one another in the connecting region 114, and the lighting unit segments 105 and 106 are connected to one another in a further connecting region 115. The same applies to the further lighting unit segments 106-109. The connecting regions 114 to 118 are constructed in the same way and each enable flexible bendability of the lighting unit body 2 at least about one bending axis. In the first exemplary embodiment, the connecting regions 114 to 118 each enable flexible bendability of the lighting unit body 2 at least about a first bending axis 9 and a second bending axis 10, wherein the first and second bending axes 9, 10 each run essentially at a right angle, thus normal, to the longitudinal extension 3.Bending axes 9 and 10 are also substantially perpendicular to one another. In particular, the second bending axis 10 extends along a transverse direction 23 of the lighting unit 1. It is understood that, in particular, two or more bending axes are possible, which are at different angles to one another and are not parallel to the longitudinal extension 3. Bending axes 9, 10 each run analogously through the connecting regions 114, 115, 116, 117, and 118, but for the sake of clarity, are only shown for the connecting region 115 in the . Fig. 1 marked.

[0056] The light unit body 2 is in the Figuren 1-12 The first exemplary embodiment shown in the drawing and its variants are formed with a one-piece component made of a plastic material and, for example, injection-molded or 3D-printed, forms a component of a housing of the lighting unit 1 and has an elongated box-like shape.

[0057] In the lighting unit segments 104, 105, 106, 107, 108 and 109, the lighting unit body 2 is each formed with a plate-shaped cover section 94a, 95a, 96a, 97a, 98a, 99a, substantially flat side walls 94b, 95b, 96b, 97b, 98b, 99b and unspecified end walls, wherein the side walls 94b-99b, the cover sections 94a-99a and the unspecified end walls delimit an interior space 14c, 15c and 16c of the lighting unit segment 104-109, respectively. The cover sections 94a-99a, side walls 94b-99b and end walls are preferably formed integrally with one another in the lighting unit segment 104-109.

[0058] In each of the connecting regions 114-118, adjacent edge regions of the side walls 94b and 95b, 95b and 96b, 96b and 97b, 97b and 98b, 98b and 99b of the adjacent lighting unit segments 104-109 are connected by a wave structure 11 with wave crests 12 and wave troughs 13, wherein the wave structure 11 is manufactured in one piece with the side walls 94b, 95b or 95b, 96b or 96b, 97b or 97b, 98b or 98b, 99b connected thereby. In the lighting unit body 2, the cover sections 94a-99a, the side walls 94b-99b together with the end walls and the wave structures 11 can be formed with the same plastic material.

[0059] The wave structure 11 is clearly visible especially in Fig. 5 and 7and, by way of example, essentially comprises two full wave lengths to enable high flexibility and bendability in the connecting regions 114-118. In variants, however, the number of wave crests and troughs 12, 13 can be modified compared to the design shown in the figures.

[0060] Directions of crests of wave crests 12 and troughs of wave troughs 13 each extend transversely, in particular approximately perpendicularly, to the longitudinal extension 3 of the lighting unit body 2, and thus each run essentially parallel to the side walls 94b-99b connected by the wave structure 11. In some variants, one or more of the crests and / or troughs can deviate in their orientation by a few degrees from a normal to the longitudinal extension 3, for example, by up to 5 degrees.

[0061] The wave structures 11 enable the bendability of the lighting unit body 2 about two axes in the connecting regions 114-118, in particular both about the first bending axis 9 and about the second bending axis 10. The directions of the crests of the wave peaks 12 and the troughs of the wave valleys 13 run in the figures essentially parallel to the first bending axis 9 and essentially normal to the second bending axis 10.

[0062] With the help of the wave structures 11, the lighting unit body 2 is designed to be more flexible in the connecting areas 114-118 than in the area of ​​the lighting unit segments 104-109. Thus, good flexibility of the lighting unit 1 can be achieved, while at the same time, components housed within the interior spaces 94c-99c of the relatively rigid and stiff lighting unit segments 104-109 outside the connecting areas 114-118 are well protected. Components housed in this way are explained in more detail below.

[0063] In the interior spaces 94c-99c, a flat support component 134-139 is accommodated in each case and can be held there reliably and precisely due to the relatively rigid design of the lighting unit segments 104-109, in comparison to the connecting areas 114-118. The support components 134, 135, 136, 137, 138, 139 are preferably designed as printed circuit boards and each carry electrical conductors. Furthermore, in the first embodiment, on the support components 134-139, in the area of, for example, Fig. 4 lower sides thereof, light generating devices 80 formed with LEDs are provided, see for example Fig. 3 .

[0064] In particular, in the first embodiment, each support component 134-139 carries two LEDs or two groups of LEDs as light-generating devices 80. An optical element 52 is each assigned to the light-generating devices 80, for example the two LEDs or the two groups of LEDs, such that light emitted by the light-generating devices 80 can be directed by the optical element 52 for output of the light in a desired manner. In the first embodiment, each lighting unit segment 104-109 has a dumbbell-shaped optical assembly 51 in which two optical elements 52 are connected to one another by a web 53. The optical assembly 51 is arranged in the interior space 94c, 95c, 96c, 97c, 98c or 99c between the carrier component 134, 135, 136, 137, 138 or 139 and the cover section 94a, 95a, 96a, 97a, 98a or 99a.Here, the optical elements 52 are each arranged in a position that corresponds to the position of an exemplary round opening in the cover section 94a-99a. Such an opening 94d is shown by way of example in . Fig. 4 only visible for one optical element 52 of the lighting unit segment 104, but present analogously for the second optical element 52 and the other segments 105-109. In the first exemplary embodiment shown in the figures, the optical elements 52 are designed, for example, as reflectors, although it is also conceivable for the optical elements 52 to be designed, for example, as lenses instead. Furthermore, it is conceivable to provide diffuse light emission through the lighting unit 1 instead of directed or bundled light emission. In the regions in which the openings analogous to the opening 94d and the optical elements 52 are provided, each of the lighting unit segments 104-109 in the first exemplary embodiment thus has two light emission regions 50.

[0065] Electronic components are also provided on one, several, or all of the carrier components 134-139, which serve to supply electricity and / or control the light-generating devices 80. For controlling the lighting unit 1, and in particular the light-generating devices 80, one or more control signals can be received by the lighting unit 1.

[0066] In the first embodiment, the carrier component 134 carries, for example, two resilient contact elements 64 and the carrier component 139 carries two resilient contact elements 66. The contact elements 64 each protrude through an associated recess in one of the opposing side walls 94b, while the contact elements 66 each protrude through an associated recess in one of the opposing side walls 99b. The carrier components 134-139 can, for example, be mounted on one side, in the Fig. 1 , 4 , 5 , 9, 10underneath, be equipped.

[0067] The carrier components 134 and 135, 135 and 136, 136 and 137, 137 and 138, and 138 and 139 are each electrically coupled and connected in the connecting region 114-118 by a strip-like or foil-like flexible connection 20. The connection 20 is each formed with a strip-like or foil-like, flexible material, for example, an insulating plastic strip or an insulating plastic foil, wherein this material carries conductor tracks and is arranged in the connecting region 114-118 in a bent U-shape, see in particular Fig. 4 , 5 , 9, 10 .

[0068] The substantially flat, plate-like support components 134-139 are each received in the interior space 94c-99c substantially parallel to the cover section 94a-99a between the opposing side walls 94b, 94b, 95b, 95b, 96b, 96b, 97b, 97b, 98b, 98b, 99b, 99b. A valley bottom 22 of the U-shape of the connection 20 runs, in the unbent state of the lighting unit 1, substantially parallel to the cover sections 94a-99a and substantially transverse to the longitudinal extension 3.

[0069] The arrangement of electrical and / or electronic components and the light-generating devices 80, which are accommodated in the lighting unit body 2 with the aid of the carrier components 134-139, as well as the arrangement of the optical elements 52, thus follows a bending of the lighting unit body 2 without damage and reliably. The strip- or foil-like connection 20 can be manufactured relatively easily and inexpensively. The strip- or foil-like material of the connections 20 can be connected to the carrier components 134-139 at their mutually facing edges or can continue into the carrier components 134-139. The plate-like carrier components 134-139 and the connections 20 can be formed together as a so-called rigid-flex PCB, where PCB stands for printed circuit board.

[0070] Fig. 4 , 5 , 9 und 10 further show that the band-like or film-like, flexible connections 20 are each arranged between two of the wave structures 11 in the transverse direction 23 of the lighting unit 1. The flexible connections 20 thus enable bendability, in particular around the bending axes 9, 10, in cooperation with the wave structures 11.

[0071] In the area of ​​each of the lighting unit segments 104-109, the lighting unit body 2 is closed on a side opposite the cover section 94a-99a by a base element 141 provided jointly for the segments 104-109, see in particular Fig. 1, 2 , 4 , 5 , 10 The base element 141 is formed with essentially plate-like base sections 144-149, each of which is assigned to one of the lighting unit segments 104-109 and closes off the underside of the latter.

[0072] The base element 141 is formed as a one-piece, separate component, for example, made of a plastic material, in particular injection-molded or 3D-printed. The base sections 144-149 are each locked to the side walls 94b-99b of the lighting unit segment 104-109, to which the base elements 44, 45, 46 are respectively assigned. Furthermore, in the first exemplary embodiment, the base sections 144 and 149 are additionally connected to the lighting unit body 2 by means of a screw at both front ends of the lighting unit 1.

[0073] Adjacent base sections 144-149 are flexibly connected to one another within the base element 141 in a connecting region 124-128. The connecting regions 124-128 are arranged at positions along the longitudinal extension 3 that correspond to the positions of the connecting regions 114-118. The connecting regions 124-128 are designed such that they permit the bendability enabled by the connecting regions 114-118, in particular around the bending axes 9 and 10.

[0074] For this purpose, in each of the connecting regions 124-129, adjacent base sections 144-149 are connected to one another in one piece with respect to the longitudinal extension 3 on the outside on each side by means of a wave structure 111, wherein the wave structure 111 follows the wave shape of the wave structures 11. In a main extension area of ​​the base element 141, viewed between the two wave structures 111, the adjacent base sections 144-149 are additionally connected in one piece by means of two further wave structures 111a, the wave shape of which each has a lower amplitude than the wave shape of the wave structures 111, see for example Fig. 6 und 8 The one-piece base element 141 is thus easy to handle as a single component and at the same time allows for bending around the axes 9, 10.

[0075] Between mutually facing narrow side edges of the adjacent cover sections 94a-99a, for example between mutually facing narrow side edges S4a and S5a of the cover sections 94a and 95a and between mutually facing narrow side edges S5b and S6a of the cover sections 95a and 96a, a gap is provided in the unbent state of the lighting unit body 2 and thus of the lighting unit 1, see Fig. 3 and 11 . A corresponding gap is provided in the same way between the other mutually facing narrow side edges of further of the lighting unit segments 104-109.

[0076] The narrow side margins S4a and S6a as well as the further example in Fig. 11 The designated narrow side edge S6b are each provided with a concave contour 29, as seen in a main extension plane of the cover section 94a, 96a. The narrow side edges S5a and S5b, as well as the further narrow side edge S9a designated as an example, are each provided with a convex contour 28, as seen in a main extension plane of the cover section 95a or 99a. Similarly, in the further lighting unit segments 104-109, one of the mutually facing narrow side edges is formed with a convex contour and the other with a concave contour, see Fig. 11 .

[0077] The convex contour 28 and the concave contour 29 engage in the connecting regions 114-118 in such a way that in the unbent state, the gap remains between the contours 28 and 29. When bending the lighting unit 1, this prevents the cover sections 94a-99a from colliding with each other, at least within a defined range of curvature radii. At the same time, Fig. 11 lower visible side of the lighting unit 1, on which the light is also emitted by the lighting unit 1 by means of the light generating devices 80 and the optical elements 52, the cover sections 94a-99a fit neatly and successively to one another with small gaps between them.

[0078] The lighting unit 1 is part of a track lighting system and is used to construct a lighting arrangement, for example to construct a lighting arrangement 2000 according to the exemplary illustration in Fig. 11 and 12 .

[0079] The rail lighting system in the example in Fig. 11 , 12 at least one support rail 1000, which follows a path 1001 with a longitudinal extension 1002 thereof. The path 1001 is curved at least in sections. Along the longitudinal extension 1002, the support rail 1000 has an elongated mounting slot 1003 with a depth direction 1004.

[0080] The lighting unit 1 can be inserted into the mounting slot 1003, mechanically coupled to the support rail 1000 and a conductor device 1006 arranged within the mounting slot 1003, see Fig. 12 , by means of the contact elements 64 and 66. The conductor device 1006 is provided, for example, in two parts on both sides of the inserted lighting unit 1 in the mounting slot 1003 and provides an electrical supply voltage, in particular low voltage, as well as a control signal, for example a DALI signal. Mechanically, the lighting unit 1 is held in a locking manner on the support rail 1000 by means of locking elements 70, which are in particular formed integrally with the side walls 94b-99b.

[0081] The exemplary lighting arrangement 2000 constructed on the basis of the track lighting system comprises the support rail 1000 and the lighting unit 1 inserted into the mounting slot 1003 and electrically contacting the conductor device 1006. The lighting arrangement 2000 can comprise additional lighting units 1.

[0082] The lighting unit 1 serves to generate light, which is directed and emitted by means of the optical elements 52. For this purpose, the lighting unit 1 is supplied with the electrical energy provided by the conductor device 1006 for operating the lighting unit 1 and with the control signal provided by the conductor device 1006, or is controlled based on the control signal.

[0083] The lighting unit 1 can be used flexibly and versatilely in mounting rails 1000 that are curved in different ways, for example, with different bending radii. The bend along the path 1001 does not necessarily follow a circular shape, but can instead follow a different curve. The mounting rail 1000 can also be curved in a plane or in space. In this case, the mounting slot 1003 can open outward at various points in the cross-section of the curved mounting rail 1000.

[0084] If the lighting unit 1 is to be bent only around the bending axis 9 in each of the connecting areas 114-118, the support rail 1000 can, for example, follow a flat curve as path 1001, with the depth direction 1004 then being aligned perpendicular to the plane in which the path 1001 lies. Using relatively simply designed optical elements 52, a lighting arrangement 2000, which is formed, for example, as a luminous curve, can radiate toward the floor of a room.

[0085] Nevertheless, the lighting unit 1 of the first embodiment can be used reliably with mounting slots 1003 arranged in different ways on a support rail 1000 due to its bendability about the at least two bending axes 9 and 10, which run non-parallel and in particular transversely to the longitudinal extension 3, wherein the support rail 1000 can curve in a variety of ways in a plane or in space.

[0086] For example, in a conceivable variant, if the path 1001 is a planar curve, at least in a section of the support rail 1000 the depth direction 1004 of the mounting slot 1003 can deviate from a normal to the plane of the curve, for example lie in the plane of the curve or be inclined obliquely to it.

[0087] If, however, the path 1001 is a spatial curve, the depth direction 1004 can deviate from a binormal of an accompanying tripod of the spatial curve in at least one section of the support rail 1000, for example, it can run along a principal normal or lie in the normal plane spanned by the binormal and the principal normal. The lighting unit 1 can be used equally well if the depth direction 1004 runs along the binormal or parallel to it.

[0088] At the Fig. 11 , 12In the lighting arrangement 2000 shown, the lighting unit 1 inserted into the mounting slot 1003 is bent about the first bending axis 9 after insertion due to the curvature of the path 1001. Only a portion of the curved support rail 1000 is shown as an example. In lighting arrangements according to other conceivable embodiments, the support rail 1000 or a portion thereof and thus the path 1001 can instead be curved such that the inserted lighting unit 1 is bent in the connection regions 114-118 about the second bending axis 10 or simultaneously about both the first bending axis 9 and the second bending axis 10.

[0089] The Figuren 13-14 , 16-17 illustrate lighting arrangements 3000, 4000 and 5000 according to variants of a second embodiment. In the variant of the second embodiment in Fig. 14 A mounting rail 1000 is used, as described above with reference to Fig. 11 and 12 In the lighting arrangements 4000 and 5000 according to variants of the second embodiment, which are shown in the Fig. 14, 16 and 17 are shown in sections, a modified support rail 1000' is provided, which differs from the support rail 1000 in that the support rail 1000' has the same mounting slots 1003 and 1030 on opposite longitudinal sides.

[0090] The support rail 1000' is thus provided with two mounting slots 1003, 1030, in which Fig. 14 only in one of the mounting slots 1003, 1030, in Fig. 16 , 17 However, a lighting unit 1' can be inserted into each of these. In particular, each of the two mounting slots 1003, 1030 is provided with a conductor device 1006, for example analogous Fig. 12 , provided. Fig. 14 also shows a depth direction 1004 of the mounting slot 1003, which opens, for example, from an inner radius of the curved section of the support rail 1000', and a depth direction 1040 of the mounting slot 1030, which opens, for example, from an outer radius of the curved section of the support rail 1000'.

[0091] In the second embodiment and its variants, a lighting unit 1' is provided, the differences of which compared to the lighting unit 1 explained in detail above are described below. Furthermore, the lighting unit 1' is designed like the lighting unit 1.

[0092] The lighting unit 1' has a lighting unit body 2, which is divided along a longitudinal extent of the lighting unit body 2 into three lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6, which, analogously to the first exemplary embodiment, are each connected in connecting regions 7' and 8' so as to be bendable about the two bending axes 9, 10. The connecting regions 7' and 8', like the above-described connecting regions 114-118 of the lighting unit 1, are provided with wave structures 11', which are designed and arranged like the wave structures 11.

[0093] Mutually facing narrow side edges of cover sections 14a', 15a' and 16a' of the lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6 are in Fig. 13 visible. Of these, Fig. 13 The narrow side edges S4a' and S5a' are designated by way of example. The narrow side edge S4a' of the lighting unit segment 4 is formed with a concave contour 29, and the narrow side edge S5a' of the lighting unit segment 5 with a convex contour 28, between which a gap remains, analogous to the first exemplary embodiment. The narrow side edges differ from those of the cover sections 94a-99a, however, in that a bevel 30 is additionally formed in the thickness direction of the cover section 14a in the region of the concave contour 29. The same applies to the narrow side edge of the cover section 16a', see Fig. 13 In this way, the bending can be carried out around a bending axis 10, analogous to that shown in Fig. 1 marked, can be further facilitated.

[0094] Furthermore, in the second embodiment, instead of a common base element for the lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6, separate base elements 44', 45' and 46' are provided, which close off the lighting unit segment 4, 5 and 6 on a cover section 14a', 15a' or 16a', respectively, and for this purpose are locked, for example, to the side walls of these. Mutually facing, unspecified narrow side edges of the base elements 44' and 45' as well as 45' and 46' are each formed with a convex contour, whereby in the unbent state of the lighting unit 1', a gap remains between the base elements 44', 45' and 45', 46', see, for example, Fig. 17 . In the lighting unit 1', the above-described wave structures 111, 111a of the base element are therefore not provided.

[0095] The base elements 44', 45', 46' are separate components, for example, made of a plastic material, in particular injection-molded or 3D-printed. In the second exemplary embodiment, the lighting unit body 2 is also formed as a one-piece component made of a plastic material and, for example, injection-molded or 3D-printed, forming a component of a housing of the lighting unit 1' and having an elongated, box-like shape.

[0096] Fig. 13 A lighting unit 1' is inserted into the mounting slot 1003 of the support rail 1000. The support rail 1000 follows a path 1001 with its longitudinal extension 1002, which is formed as a flat curve. The depth direction 1004 is perpendicular to the plane of this curve. Thus, the lighting unit 1' is bent in the connecting areas 7', 8' essentially only around the first bending axis 9.

[0097] In the lighting arrangement 4000 in Fig. 14 However, the lighting unit 1' is inserted into the mounting slot 1003 of the support rail 1000', which, however, is different from Fig. 13 shown is curved. In order to follow the curvature of the path 1001 of the support rail 1000', the lighting unit 1' is bent in each of the connecting areas 7', 8' around the second bending axis 10. The lighting unit 1' bent in this way is in Fig. 15 shown separately.

[0098] Instead of the Fig. 14-15 The bending shown in the drawing can be adjusted in the connecting areas 7', 8' around the bending axis 10 compared to Fig. 14-15 can also be bent in the other direction. Fig. 16 illustrates the lighting arrangement 5000, in which two lighting units 1' are arranged opposite each other in the curved section of the support rail 1000'. Here, one of the lighting units 1' is inserted into the mounting slot 1003 and bent as shown in Fig. 13 . The other lighting unit 1' is inserted into the mounting slot 1030 and is thus bent around the second bending axis 10 in the connecting regions 7' and 8' in the opposite direction to the lighting unit 1' inserted into the mounting slot 1003.

[0099] The insertion of one of the lighting units 1' into the mounting slot 1003 along a first insertion direction E1, for example substantially parallel to the depth direction 1004 at the location of the center of the one lighting unit 1', and the insertion of the second of the lighting units 1' into the mounting slot 1030 along a second insertion direction E2, for example substantially parallel to the depth direction 1040 at the location of the center of the second lighting unit 1', is shown in perspective Fig. 17. Fig. 17 shows the light units 1' still in unbent condition.

[0100] A lighting unit 1" according to a third embodiment shows Fig. 18 The lighting unit 1" is modified from the lighting unit 1'. The differences in comparison with the lighting units 1 and 1' are explained below, whereby the above explanations are also applicable to the lighting unit 1". The lighting unit 1" can be used as part of a track lighting system in a lighting arrangement, for example in a lighting arrangement such as the lighting arrangement 2000, 3000, 4000 or 5000, as described above for the first and second embodiments.

[0101] The lighting unit 1" differs from the lighting units 1 and 1' in that Fig. 18 a lighting unit body 2" is provided which is formed from a first plastic material and a second plastic material, wherein the first and second plastic materials are different. In particular, the lighting unit body 2" is formed from a one-piece component which is injection-molded or 3D-printed from the first and second plastic materials in one go. The second plastic material is more elastic than the first plastic material. While the first plastic material, which is relatively rigid after solidification, is used in the area of ​​the lighting unit segments 4, 5 and 6, the second plastic material, which is elastic and, for example, rubber-like after solidification, is used in the connecting areas 7" and 8" to form the wave structures 11". The wave structures 11" are firmly connected to the adjacent side walls 14b", 15b" and 16b" during production, in particular by injection molding or 3D printing.15b", 16b" of the lighting unit segments 4, 5 and 5, 6 are connected in one piece.

[0102] The more pliable, more flexible material of the wave structures 11" further improves the advantageous bendability of the lighting unit 1", especially around the bending axes 9 and 10. For Fig. 18 Not shown floor elements corresponding to the floor elements 44', 45', 46' of the second embodiment, the first, relatively rigid plastic material is also used in the lighting unit 1", for example.

[0103] Fig. 19 shows a lighting unit 1‴ according to a fourth embodiment, which is again modified compared to the first and second embodiments. The differences between the lighting unit 1‴ and the lighting unit 1' are explained below, with further reference again to the above explanations regarding the first and second embodiments. The lighting unit 1‴ can be used as part of a track lighting system in a lighting arrangement, for example, in the lighting arrangement 2000, 3000, 4000, or 5000, as described above.

[0104] The lighting unit 1‴ has a lighting unit body 2‴, which is divided into the lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6 along the longitudinal extension 3. In the third exemplary embodiment, the lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6 are connected in connecting regions 7‴, 8‴, wherein the connecting regions 7‴, 8‴ in turn enable bendability about two mutually non-parallel bending axes, which run non-parallel and in particular transverse to the longitudinal extension 3, in particular about the first and second bending axes 9, 10.

[0105] Analogous to the third exemplary embodiment, the lighting unit body 2‴ is formed from a first plastic material and a second plastic material, wherein the first and second plastic materials are different and the second plastic material is more elastic than the first. The first plastic material is thus relatively rigid, whereas the second plastic material is elastic and in particular rubber-like. In the fourth exemplary embodiment, two essentially flat, wall- or plate-like elastic intermediate sections 11‴ are provided in each of the connecting regions 7‴, 8‴. The intermediate sections 11‴ connect adjacent edge regions of the side walls 14b‴, 15b‴ and 15b‴, 16b‴ of the adjacent lighting unit segments 4, 5 and 5, 6 in an essentially straight continuation of the main extension planes of the side walls 14b‴, 15b‴ and 15b‴, 16b‴. The intermediate sections 11‴ can be used, see Fig. 19 , be designed as essentially solid, elastic or rubber-like plate sections.

[0106] In the area of ​​the lighting unit segments 4, 5, and 6, the first plastic material is used in the lighting unit body 2‴, while the second plastic material, which is elastic and, for example, rubber-like after solidification, is used to form the intermediate sections 11‴. In particular, the lighting unit body 2‴ is formed from a one-piece component that is injection-molded or 3D-printed from the first and second plastic materials in one go. As in the third exemplary embodiment, the base elements of the lighting unit 1‴ are also preferably formed from the first plastic material.

[0107] The Fig. 18 und 19 further show flat support components 17, 18 and 19, which are provided and connected analogously to the support components in the lighting units 1', 1", 1‴ and carry electrical and / or electronic components as well as light generating devices, in particular LEDs. The lighting units 1', 1", 1‴ also have optical elements in their interior, for example as in the first embodiment, which are not shown in the figures.

[0108] In the lighting arrangements 3000, 4000, 5000, the conductor device 1006 can also be electrically contacted by the contact elements 64, 66 of the respective lighting unit 1', 1", 1‴ used in order to tap off a supply voltage and, in particular, a control signal.

[0109] While in the Figuren 1-12 In the illustrated embodiments, the lighting unit 1 has six lighting unit segments 104-109 and in the Figuren 13-19In the illustrated embodiments, the lighting unit 1', 1" or 1‴ each has three lighting unit segments 4, 5, 6, it is understood that in further, modified embodiments, fewer or more lighting segments, for example two, four, five, seven or eight, can be provided.

[0110] Although the present invention has been fully described above using preferred embodiments, it is not limited thereto but can be modified in many ways. LIST OF REFERENCE SYMBOLS

[0111] 1, 1', 1", 1‴Lighting unit 2, 2', 2", 2‴Lighting unit body 3Longitudinal extension (lighting unit body) 104, 105, 106Lighting unit segment 107, 108, 109Lighting unit segment 4, 5, 6Lighting unit segment 114, 115, 116Connecting area 117, 118Connecting area 124, 125, 126Connecting area 127, 128Connecting area 7', 7", 7‴Connecting area 8', 8", 8‴Connecting area 9First bending axis 10Second bending axis 11, 11', 11"Wave structure 11‴Elastic intermediate section 12Cave crest 13Cave trough 111, 111aCorrugated structure 94a, 95a, 96aCover section 97a, 98a, 99aCover section 94b, 95b, 96bSide wall 97b, 98b, 99bSide wall 94c, 95c, 96cInterior 97c, 97c, 99cInterior 94dOpening 14a', 15a', 16a'Cover section 14b", 15b", 16b"Side wall 14b‴, 15b‴, 16b‴Side wall 134, 135, 136Flat-shaped support component 137, 138, 139Flat-shaped support component 17, 18, 19Flat-shaped support component 20Band- or film-like, flexible connection 22Valley bottom (U-shape) 23Transverse direction (lighting unit) S4a, S5a,b,S6a Narrow side edge S9a, S4a', S5a' Narrow side edge 28 Convex contour 29 Concave contour 30 Bevel 141 Base element 144, 145, 146 Base section 147, 148, 149 Base section 44', 45', 46' Base element 50 Light emission area 51 Optical assembly 52 Optical element 53 Web 64, 66 Contact elements 70 Latching elements 80 Light generating device 1000, 1000' Support rail 1001 Path 1002 Longitudinal extension (support rail) 1003 Mounting slot 1030 Mounting slot 1004 Depth direction (mounting slot) 1040 Depth direction (mounting slot) 1006 Conductor device (Support rail) 2000, 3000Lighting arrangement 4000, 5000Lighting arrangement E1, E2Insertion direction,

Claims

1. Lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) for a rail lighting system, which comprises a support rail (1000; 1000') which is shaped to follow an at least partially curved path (1001) and is provided with at least one mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) along a longitudinal extent (1002) of the support rail (1000; 1000'), wherein the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) can be inserted into the mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) for electrically contacting a conductor device (1006) of the support rail (1000; 1000'), wherein the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) has a lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) which is divided into two or more lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) along a longitudinal extent (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴), wherein adjacent ones of the lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) are connected to one another in a connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"; 7"', 8‴), wherein the connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8";7"', 8‴) each allow flexible bendability of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) about at least one bending axis (9, 10), the bending axis (9, 10) running non-parallel to the longitudinal extent (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴), and the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) being more flexible in the connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"; 7‴, 8‴) than in the region of the lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6).

2. Lighting unit according to claim 1, characterized in that the at least one bending axis (9, 10) runs substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴).

3. Lighting unit according to claim 1 or 2, characterized in thatthe connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"; 7‴, 8‴) each enables flexible bendability of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) about at least two bending axes (9, 10), and the two bending axes (9, 10) are not parallel to one another and each run non-parallel to the longitudinal extension (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴); in particular characterized in that the two bending axes (9, 10) are substantially perpendicular to one another and / or extend substantially perpendicular to the longitudinal extension (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴).

4. Lighting unit according to one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that at least one of the lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) has at least one light generating device (80).

5. Lighting unit according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in thatthe connecting region(s) (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8") is / are each formed with at least one wave structure (11; 11'; 11") with wave crests (12) and wave troughs (13), and in particular that the directions of the crests of the wave crests (12) and the valley floors of the wave troughs (13) are non-parallel, in particular substantially perpendicular, to the longitudinal extent (3) of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"); or that the connecting region(s) (7", 8"; 7‴, 8‴) is / are each formed with at least one elastic intermediate section (11"; 11‴), and in particular that the elastic intermediate section (11‴) is plate-like or wall-like.

6. Lighting unit according to one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in thatthe lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) has a box-like shape and the lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) are each formed with at least a cover section (94a-99a; 14a'-16a'), side walls (94b-99b; 14b"-16b"; 14b‴-16b‴) and an interior space (94c-99c).

7. Lighting unit according to claim 6, characterized in thatin the connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"), adjacent edge regions of the side walls (94b-99b; 14b"-16b") of the adjacent lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) are connected by a wave structure (11; 11'; 11") with wave crests (12) and wave troughs (13) and / or in the connecting region (7", 8"; 7"', 8‴), adjacent edge regions of the side walls (14b"-16b"; 14b"'-16b"') of the adjacent lighting unit segments (4-6) are connected by an elastic intermediate section (11"; 11‴), in particular a plate-like or wall-like elastic intermediate section (11"); in particular characterized in thatthe crests of the wave peaks (12) and the valley floors of the wave troughs (13) run substantially parallel to the side walls (94b-99b; 14b"-16b") connected by the wave structure (11; 11'; 11"), or that the plate-like or wall-like elastic intermediate section (11‴) is designed as a substantially planar continuation of a main extension surface of one of the side walls (14b"', 15b"', 16b‴) in the direction of an adjacent one of the side walls (14b'", 15b"', 16b‴).

8. Lighting unit according to one of claims 6 to 7, characterized in thatin the interior spaces (94c-99c) of at least two of the adjacent lighting unit segments (104-109; 4, 5, 6), at least one planar carrier component (134-139; 17, 18, 19) is accommodated, wherein the planar carrier component (134-139; 17, 18, 19) carries electrical conductors, and in particular further electronic components and / or electrical contacting devices, and that the planar carrier components (134-139; 17, 18, 19) of the adjacent lighting unit segments (104-109; 4, 5, 6) are connected to one another and electrically coupled via a band-like or film-like, flexible connection (20); in particular characterized in that one, several or all of the planar carrier components (134-139; 17, 18, 19) each carry one or more light generating devices (80), in particular an LED or LEDs.

9. Lighting unit according to claim 8, characterized in thatthe planar support component (134-139; 17, 18, 19) is received in the interior space (94c-99c) substantially parallel to the cover section (94a-99a; 14a'-16a') between the side walls (94b-99b; 14b"-16b"; 14b‴-16b‴).

10. Lighting unit according to one of claims 8 to 9, characterized in that the strip-like or film-like, flexible connection (20) in the connection region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8", 7"', 8‴) is formed with a strip-like or film-like, flexible material which carries conductor tracks and is arranged bent in a U-shape in the connection region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8"; 7"', 8‴), and in particular that a valley bottom (22) of the U-shape runs essentially parallel to the cover sections (94a-99a; 14a'-16a') in an unbent state of the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴).

11. Lighting unit according to claim 10 in conjunction with claim 7, characterized in thatthe U-shape is arranged in a transverse direction (23) of the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1") between two of the wave structures (11; 11'; 11") of the connecting region (114-118; 7', 8'; 7", 8") or that the U-shape is arranged in a transverse direction (23) of the lighting unit (1"; 1‴) between two of the elastic intermediate sections (11"; 11‴) of the connecting region (7", 8"; 7‴, 8‴).

12. Lighting unit according to one of claims 6 to 11, characterized in thatat least one optical element (52), for example a reflector or a lens, is further accommodated in the interior space (94c-99c); and / or that a gap is provided between mutually facing narrow side edges (S4a, S5a, S5b, S6a; S4a', S5a') of the cover sections (94a-99a; 14a', 15a', 16a') of the mutually adjacent lighting unit segments (104-109; 4, 5, 6) in an unbent state of the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴), wherein the narrow side edge (S5a, S5b; S5a') of a first of the cover sections (95a; 15a') is provided with a convex contour (28) as seen in a main extension plane of the first cover section (95a; 15a') and the narrow side edge (S4a, S6a; S4a') of a second of the cover sections (94a, 96a; 14a') are formed with a concave contour (29) seen in a main extension plane of the second cover section (94a, 96a; 14a') and the convex and concave contours (28, 29) interlock in such a way that the gap remains in the unbent state.

13. Lighting unit according to one of the preceding claims, characterized in that the lighting unit body (2; 2'; 2"; 2‴) is made of at least one plastic material; and / or that the adjacent lighting unit segments (104-109; 4-6) are integrally connected in the connecting region (114-118; 7, 8; 7', 8'; 7", 8").

14. Lighting arrangement (2000; 3000; 4000; 5000), with a support rail (1000; 1000') which is shaped to follow an at least partially curved path (1001), is provided with at least one mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) along a longitudinal extent (1002) of the support rail (1000; 1000') and has a conductor device (1006); and at least one lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) according to one of claims 1 to 13, which is inserted into the mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) and is in electrical contact with the conductor device (1006), wherein the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) can be supplied at least with electrical energy provided by the conductor device (1006) for the operation of the lighting unit (1; 1'; 1"; 1‴) or at least with electrical energy provided by the conductor device (1006) and a control signal provided by the conductor device (1006).

15. Lighting arrangement according to claim 14, characterized in thatthe path (1001) is a planar curve and a depth direction (1004; 1004, 1040) of the mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) is aligned substantially normal to a plane of the curve, or that the path (1001) is a planar curve and at least in one section of the support rail (1000; 1000') a depth direction (1004; 1004, 1040) of the mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) deviates from a normal to the plane of the curve, or that the path (1001) is a spatial curve and at least in one section of the support rail (1000; 1000') a depth direction (1004; 1004, 1040) of the mounting slot (1003; 1003, 1030) deviates from a binormal of a accompanying tripod of the space curve; and / or that the support rail (1000') has at least two mounting slots (1003, 1030) and that the lighting arrangement (4000; 5000) has at least two lighting units (1; 1'; 1";1‴) according to one of claims 1 to 18, which are inserted into one of the mounting slots (1003, 1030) at least partially opposite one another within a section of the support rail (1000') within which the path (1001) is curved.

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